Thomas Malton, often referred to as Thomas Malton the Younger to distinguish him from his father Thomas Malton the Elder, was an English painter and engraver known for his exquisite watercolors and architectural drawings. Born in London in 1748, he was the son of the architectural draughtsman and writer Thomas Malton the Elder, who was also his first teacher.
Malton the Younger initially worked as a stage designer before turning his focus to topographical illustration and teaching. He produced a series of works showcasing London buildings, which were highly regarded for their precision and beauty. His notable works include 'A Picturesque Tour Through the Cities of London and Westminster,' illustrated with copper-plate engravings that captured the architectural essence of the urban landscape at the time.
In addition to his artistic pursuits, Malton was an influential teacher of perspective. He wrote the treatise 'A Complete Treatise on Perspective in Theory and Practice,' which was published in 1775. The treatise outlined the principles of perspective drawing and became a valuable resource for artists, architects, and designers. His expertise in perspective was also passed on through his teaching, with the famous British painter J.M.W. Turner being one of his notable students. Despite his contributions to art and his role in educating future artists, Malton struggled with financial instability throughout his life.
Thomas Malton the Younger's life was dedicated to the study and representation of architecture, and his works remain a valuable record of 18th-century British architecture. He continued to produce and exhibit works until his death in 1804. Today, his drawings and prints are held in various collections, including the British Museum and the Victoria and Albert Museum, serving as a lasting testament to his skill and influence as an artist.